Aastha Parivaar: Truly Made of Great

Please note all names have been changed to protect identity. All the stories and incidents that I have mentioned in this post are true and it is something that I have personally experienced.

Prostitution and Women in Prostitution. Did you just flinch? It is a very common reflex for anyone. They are the “dirty secret” of our society which we choose to turn ignore by firmly shutting our eyes. One issue that we refuse to acknowledge the existence of. Who cares about a group of nameless, faceless women doing the “dirty work” day after day, night after night? We call them a number of vile names, appreciate an art film made by a popular director and then erase it from our memories.

But for me, there is a group amongst them, a seemingly small group, which is dedicatedly fighting for their cause. These remarkable women are a part of Aastha Parivaar. They have a simple agenda; women in prostitution exist and they deserve to live a life of dignity. I have worked with them for a very short duration and my contribution to the cause has inconsequential, but it is with them that I have had the greatest experiences of my life.

Before I started interning with this organization, I had a vague idea about the issue of prostitution. Sure, I would participate in heated debates on the issue and would snootily advocate my ideas to improve the situation but reality hit me hard when I had to convince my parents just to go for the first interview. My parents, my sensible educated middle class parents who would openly talk about issues, were fearful. They posed a hundred million questions, tried various tactics, ranging from anger to logic, to dissuade me and then finally just decided to let me go.

In my first week with AasthaParivaar, I was caught in a whirlwind of information. All the beliefs I had were broken down to nothing. Sometimes I could not help but let out a snort of laughter; everything I ‘knew’ was wrong. I interacted with the members, got to know the work they do and learnt to have an immense respect for them.

The issues that these women would have to fight for were basic; things we would take for granted. Things like getting a little dignity in government hospitals, using sanitary napkins, getting their children admitted in a good school, finding a place to live or just knowing that one day when they would die, there would be somebody to light their funeral pyre. The last one is the most shocking, isn’t it? Yes, I had seen a lady like that who had passed away and nobody came forward to give her a funeral till these very women, who we disparagingly call ‘prostitutes’ contributed money to light her pyre and conduct a puja for her.
These women have formed 13 Community Based Organizations that work for male sex workers, female sexworkers, the LGBT community and the transgender. They collectively reach out to thousands of people every month and provide them basic health services along with counseling, legal help and much more.

I wish I could tell compress my experience and tell it all to you in this one post but I can’t. But what I can do is tell you three very inspiring stories that will help you understand why these women are #madeofgreat.

Shivani’s story

Shivani was around 20 when she left Bengal to come to Mumbai to look for work. She wanted to study and do something with her life but the circumstances did not allow her follow her dreams. I met Shivani on three separate occasions and I remember these clearly. She would always be beautifully dressed and was particularly fond of make up. Shivani even showed me a lipstick case that one of her regular clients gifted her and offered to apply make up for me because I would never bother. In all these meetings, I never asked her how she ended up in the flesh trade. Rather our conversatiosn would revolve around her future.

She would speak to me in English and would tell me the latest topic that she was attempting to master for her exams. Shivani was about 42 and had enrolled herself in a distance course to complete her Bachelors in Management Studies. Yes, she would go on the street every night to get clients and she was quite frank about it. But she also went to English classes and studied hard whenever she could hoping that one day she would get a job in a proper office with a table and chair. Yes, that was her dream. To get a table and chair with a nameplate stating her name and designation.

Along with her studies, Shivani was also involved in spreading information about AIDS and HIV in certain localities. She was involved in distribution of condoms and advocating safe sex and along with that, she would always have the time to whip up amazing meals. I particularly enjoyed the aloo sabji she made for me once.

Last when I spoke to her, she told me that she had completed two years of college now and was gearing up for the final year.

What Tina Di shared with me

Tina Di is a very fashionable woman. Tottering high heels, skinny jeans, a long kurta and a dash of kajal is her favourite look. When I first met her, I was completely tongue-tied. Do I call her he or she? You see, Tina Di belonged to the transgender community. After half an hour of sitting quietly in the corner, I mustered the courage to speak to her. I frankly told her my confusion and she burst into peals of laughter. Tina told me it was completely upto me. She didn’t mind what I called her and smiling she want about her business at the counseling centre. Di worked as a full time employee at this particularly centre that worked for the LGBT and the transgender community. She had a sharp wit and warm smile that made you feel so welcome.

One important lesson that she taught was that sometimes all people wanted was a little respect and some friendly conversation. And this is one lesson that has held me in good stead. When I was travelling to Solapur in a train, my fellow companions were from the transgender community. I was looked a little menacing to me and at first I decided to ignore them completely. But then, I remember Tina Di’s words and decided to strike a conversation. I must tell you that was the most fun journey that I have ever had in my life. We exchanged stories, sang some songs and had the time of our lives.

Sneha’s Baby

Sneha has been in the trade for as long she can remember. But there is one thing she is particularly grateful for is her beautiful daughter who she adopted many years ago. The baby was found abandoned near her house and everybody was too scared to go to the police. Something in her made her decide that she wanted to take care of this child. Sneha never believed that she could change her present but she the least she could do is brighten this child’s future.

She put her daughter through school and college and when the time came got her married to a wonderful young man. And that is one thing that makes her beam with pride. Her wonderful daughter gave her the strength to start working for the community and help out the women who were forced to be here against their will. Sneha currently is a part of a Community Based Organization in Mumbai and actively works with the children of women in prostitution to ensure that they have a future just like her baby girl did.

These are just three of the many inspiring stories that I have come across during my short internship with Aastha Parivaar, an organization that does wonderful work at the grassroots level. For me, each and every one of these women who are contributing for the cause are #madeofgreat. They don’t demand credit, they are not looking for awards, all they want is that their sisters get an opportunity to live life fully and with some dignity and respect.

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Nice post .Its great that you have that courage to do something which normally any girl/women would avoid to do .And being a part of such wonderful organisation like Aastha Parivaar is itself a big thing .Answer to the question asked Tata Motors is a brand which is one of its kind , Trustworthy and innovative .Lionel Messi is a Legend and youth icon , a person who is extra ordinary talented ,energetic , confident & dedicated to his profession .So association of Tata motors and Lionel Messi is a Great Thing as both of them does not know tiredness and are committed to their brand value .This collaboration would definitely give an edge to Tata Groups over its competitors as the brand ambassador Messi hold the reputation of not letting down his fans as Tata motors has given the best to the world.Tata motors have touched heart of middle class by bringing Tata Nano to market so that a common man can fulfil the dream of owning a car . And Messi is an inspiaration and Idol for many .So this collaboration will definitely strike Gold !!

My answer:Tata Motors' association with Lionel Messi spells a significantly notable alliance that will steer the company towards favourable benefits. I always acknowledge Tata Motors as a distinctive name in Auto industry, which will not let the success 'larger-than life' elude from its fate now with a timeless guild with iconic figure Messi. I don't see this union of Tata Motors as an aspirational effort for garnering some quick publicity and evoke specific reaction from myriad crowd with Celeb branding, but is rightly an embellished handshake for keeping up the pace to get to the pinnacle of success graph. To sum things up, I am joyous to see the brand and the star uniting for 'One in a Million' #madeofgreat power-packed drive ahead 🙂

hi Khushboo u really deserve ur name as u spread the Khushboo of work of prostitutes, transgender, etc nice experience have had.

Answer : #MadeOfGreat “Tata motors is Typhoon in Technology N Messi is Missle Man” Tata itself is another name of Trust, N handsome, energetic messis is deserve rising star of football. If these two pair come together will defintately gives fruitful result. It is very good equation when to good materials combine gives rise to strong Proudct .Macho Man Messi is no doubt is hard worker n deserve association with Tata motors which is symbol of honesty, strength, affordable price, environmental friendly machines. Messi is Baloon N Tata Motors is strong supporter engine which know where to move n where to not. Tata motors have caliber to change the conventional path of technology to super, durable technology. Tata motors is Typhoon in Technology N Messi is Missle Man who know how to play to gain a game n win the hearts of world. This association will be really stronger n give positive result in field of game n technology, power..

Circumstances make these women weak, yet so strong that they can withstand the worst of the storms. It's sad that women even today get such a raw deal. It's almost that they are being punished for being born female. Great work the organisation is doing ,but the general public needs to sensitise themselves towards women in general.To answer the question… both Tata Motors and Lionel Messi have built a solid reputation. This foundation is built on the sheer perseverance and self belief and the ability to not resting till they achieve what they had planned to. And once they reach that stage… its so easy for both to say Veni Vidi Vici and then move on…to higher and more difficult to achieve aims. They both have set very high standards, and if anyone does want to surpass them they’ll have to work very hard indeed.Cheers to greatness. – See more at: http://baketitude.blogspot.in/2015/11/following-in-your-footsteps.html

#madeofgreatgreat men think alike..so does this collaboration. .Messi has huge fan following ..and Tata Motors..is very trusted brand..and when this combination comes together..all you can say is #madeofgreatbut more importantly. .I liked your thoughts on prostitution. .and the kind of work you doing is simply amazing..salute you

Indeed a nicely written post. I wish you good luck for the contestHere is my answerThe association of Tata Motors with Lionel Messi is that of two greats. Lionel Messi has been exceptionally talented who with his hard work, determination and sacrifices has got better and tougher in his chosen sport so is the Image, reputation and quality of TATA Motors that have transformed brilliant ideas into masterpieces of engineering and created a brand and products that we are so proud of as Indians. Lionel Messi has transformed his body and the mind body co-ordination into a masterpiece of precision and excellence it would not be wrong to say that Lionel Messi is the TATA Motors of sports where as TATA Motors is the Lionel Messi of vehicles both giants in their own spheres driven by the drive to excel and lead by example. So Lionel Messi is the best choice for becoming the brand Ambassador for TATA Motorsaaloke19@gmail.com

Bloggers are one the real contributors in the society because we all come to know somethings from them which we hardly seen on TV or read in newspapers. Thank you for sharing Aastha Parivaar , a group which is dedicate to fight against the prostitution and save the women so that they can give respect in the society. Hats off to the Aastha Parivar and great that you get the chance to work with this group.

My answer to the question Tata Motors has earned the goodwill from giving the best and innovative Automobiles and it is also known as one the best Automobile Manufactures. And if you see the Lionel Messi , his throughout dedication, zeal , targeted goal of life and technically soundness make him big, achiever and remarkable position in the world.As per me, the association of Tata Motors and Messi is a grand amalgamation of two legendary entities of the world, and their amalgamation will definitely break down the clutters and affect the cut throat competition of Tata Motors. Tata motors will sure get a huge preference by the fans of Messi. This will sure make a record of Tata motors in the world of production or may be the highest selling automobiles. Tata motor’s main target is to give an impression on the large amount of crowd and this can be achieved only through the Messi, because the youth generation is crazy for MESSI and this can be smart move and a great achievement for Tata Motors they positioned MESSI as their BRAND AMBASSADOR .In the nutshell, Tata Motors , Messi joining hands will definitely give more soundness in technicality of promotional strategies and Messi’s influence will influence the audience for choosing Tata Motors and expand the business drastically.

Your post describes #madeofgreat so well that it has winner written all over it. Good luck for your entry.Here is my answer.Like minds think and act alike looking at the track record of TATA Motors it has stood the test of time and built a business that was built using bricks of hard work on a foundation of trust. Authenticity, reliability, simplicity, as well as its commitment to innovation are the trademarks of brand TATA Motors. These same qualities are present in Lionel Messi who with his immense talent has made a mark for himself on the international football field .Facing all hardships he has worked hard toiling on the fields and in training sessions facing injuries and pressure to come out trumps and be a winner. Thus these two greats Lionel Messi and TATA Motors are made for each other .There association is a bond of two legendsIn case you pick me a winner my email id is : princess09hema@gmail.comFingers crossed 🙂

Yours is a very well written post your .Its is a very nice description of #madeofgreatTATA Motors is a brand associated with performance, endurance and excellence. These words are also synonymous with Lionel Messi who plays as a forward and weaves his magic on the football field.Just as Lionel Messi is considered the best footballer in the world ,TATA motors which is Indias premier automotive manufacturer gives wheels to the people of India with its wide range of vehicles. Both believe in excelling in whatever they do and set examples for others to follow. They compliment each other as both are reliable trustworthy and leaders thus Lionel Messi is the natural choice as the brand ambassador of TATA MotorsPlease consider me as a winner Email: yagneshbjoshi10099@gmail.com

All the 3 stories you narrated here were just inspiring! Thank you soo much for this. Seems like Aastha Parivar has a great initiative up their sleeve, caring for the prostitues and giving them a much needed voice.

Your post defines #madeofgreat to the hilt.Very well written and interesting post indeed.My AnswerTata Motors is a brand that makes durable vehicles, with its MADE IN INDIA mark makes every Indian proud. It is a brand seen globally as Trusted, Reliable, Innovative and at the forefront of technology. In its journey since inception it has overcome all odds, competition, and adversities with grit and determination. These same qualities are associated with Lionel Messi who was very talented and hardworking from a very early age. With each game that he played he kept improving his skills and built a career to become one of the best player of professional football. There qualities make both TATA Motors and Lionel Messi giants who perfectly compliment each other and Lionel Messi the right and perfect Ambassador who stands for the same values that TATA Motors does.Contact : bhuwan198grover@gmail.com

Your post defines #madeofgreat to the hilt. Goodluck for the contestMy answer is:Authenticity, reliability, simplicity, as well as its commitment to innovation are the pillars of strength on which TATA have built a brand that has put India on the global map. It is a brand that has stood the test of time just like Lionel Messi who tackles opposition on the field with his skill,agility,strategy,brilliance and raw power to reach and score a goal so has been the track record of TATA motors who has become a brand leader and a global giant. These qualities make TATA Motors and Lionel Messi perfect partners who stand for the same set of values thus Lionel Messi is the perfect brand ambassador to represent TATA Motors.Hope my best to be a winner here; do contact me for the prize at mahima2014j@gmail.comfingers crossed

Very touching post dear! Wish you all the very best!My Answer:Tata Motors' association with Lionel Messi is undoubtedly #madeofgreat! Tata Motors known as a maestro in Auto industry, and it's not any surprise that they would like to make bound with another maestro, iconic figure Messi! No one can say, it is just for publicity or a trick to attract a particular generation, by teamed with Celeb branding; it is very natural and rightly to make a bond in two great – Tata Motors and Lionel Messi. And, if you ask me; I'm a fan of both, so it's perfectly #madeofgreat for me!

These are not mere words but a part of our soul. Not just the ones that we carry around in our individual bodies but that supreme soul that binds us all together in this universe. That is why we teach our children values and morals so that these little pockets of our souls do not die away. But when we look around at our modern day lifestyle and society,it leaves a lot to be desired, right? Wrong 🙂 I would say,as long as we have even 1 shred of humanity left,there is a ray of sunshine and that is what we see here.

I am inspired by your story just as I am inspired by the stories of Tata Motors and Lionel Messi. As I said above about humanity and ray of sunshine, it is very few icons left in this world who make me feel that way. Both Tata and Messi definitely make it to this short list.

When we talk about Tata Motors,we talk about the pride that every Indian feels because this is our truly global brand, a brand with a soul, with every product made to help us fly. This is a corporate behemoth that has not amassed its fortunes at the cost of the little man but by being a part of the very grassroots. The legacy of excellence and giving back to the society selflessly is so ingrained in Tata DNA that it has become part of folklore. Even today,in any Indian home, the moment a son/daughter gains employment in a Tata company, nobody talks about salary or CTC, they just thank their lucky stars that they are a part of Tata family. The very soul of India resides in Tata. Tata Motors has taken these very same values global, making Indians proud of what they represent. 'Look,we represent excellence, with a dollop of old world values, with love and respect' !

When we look at Messi, we see a boy with dreams in his eyes and a man who has put everything he had in making them come true, and he did! With singleminded focus,dedication and hardwork, he has managed to outdo every obstacle he faced since his birth personally, healthwise and family financial situation wise. Every obstacle became just another step for him to grow and reach up the sky. And still, every time he walks out on the field, he plays with the same agility, alarcity and a a hunger to prove himself as if it is his first game! He hasn't achieved his demi-God status without superhuman efforts.

When these two demi-Gods of their respective fields come together, there are bound to be fireworks and that is exactly what it is! Purely from a corporate point of view, there are rare instances when we see such a perfect fit form. It can be called a divine sign that a symbol of vibrancy and dynamism like no other has taken shape with the partnership of Tata Motors and Lionel Messi. More than a mere advertising gambit,it is an amalgamation of those perhaps 'lost' values that the world needs more of,now more than ever. Maybe the Gods are finally happy!

When it comes to impact and impacting millions of lives, Yes, we can see both Tata Motors and Lionel Messi being the pioneers here. While the very name Tata is enough to make us go back to all our history books where we have seen there hardly is a comparable name that has contributed so much to the society in such an ethical manner, the very name Messi conjures up images of a boy-man who has turned the world upside down with his talent, determination, discipline and never-give-up spirit. The compatibility between the values they both share is intense and that is the reason this partnership works perfectly.

With a concern for the society at large,everything that Tata has done has inspired us to dream big, conquer the world and pour all our energy back into the society to do good and inspire good. By facing his demons, Messi has done the same. He enjoys a God-like status in the world today because he dared to dream, achieved the sky and still hasn't lost his humanity a bit. He is still a child at heart and he gives back with his multiple philanthropic activities just like Tata does!

Talk to any person in India, ask them about the companies they admire the most. Tata is right there at the top. This name is beyond bottomline, spreadsheets, return on investment and share price. It is equivalent to soul of India-soft, kind, diverse, dynamic, eternal. Just like that Messi has emerged as not just another football player but someone whose very life is an inspiration, whose personal struggles are a template for others to emulate and who has morphed into an eternal legend.

While it would take eons to write about what makes Tata Motors and Messi great, as their list of achievements is too long for us to even skim over, suffice to say that this partnership is for the ages. As they say, some things are made in heaven 🙂

First of all I would like to thank you & Indi blogger for coming up with such an awesome giveaway.I saw the #madeofgreat video & found it very inspiring. I am not just satisfied but delighted by Tata Motor's Association with Lionel Messi. What drives us from within is what makes us great. Driven by excellence, talent, roots of humbleness, excellence & determination, Lionel Messi is definitely #madeofgreat who has proved that the zest to win, a humble approach towards life & endless perseverance cannot stop us from reaching the zenith of success. There no be no better association as just like Messi, Tata Motors is driven by technology, performance & the road ahead.Thank you for this opportunity 🙂

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About Khushboo

I am a 25 year old blogger who believes in the power of story telling and using personal experiences to blog about things close to my heart. I started Munni of all Trades 4 years back to share my ideas, thoughts and views on things that I am passionate about. I blog about things that make me happy and by extension my readers, too..
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